The Varsity Football women’s captains look ahead to this year’s tournament, which will be played in a bio-bubble at the University of Pretoria from 29 September to 4 October.
TSHOLOFELO NAMELANG (NWU)
How have NWU prepared for 2021 Varsity Football?
We are well prepared and excited. We played friendly and league matches as part of our preparation.
How does NWU plan to deal with the challenge of playing the tournament in a bio-bubble?
It will be our first time playing in a bio-bubble tournament, as is the case for many teams, but we plan to be disciplined and follow protocol.
What are your expectations for NWU heading into the tournament?
We are expecting to win and have fun while experiencing Varsity Football.
REFILWE THANDO MASEKO (UJ)
How have UJ prepared for 2021 Varsity Football?
The pandemic had a hugely negative impact on us as a team, but we have managed to focus on what we can control and stay focused. Everyone has given their all and I believe we are ready for the tournament.
How do UJ plan to deal with the challenge of playing the tournament in a bio-bubble?
We are not phased or bothered about the bio-bubble, because our varsity tournament has been more or less the same thing. We are used to being in each other’s space and have planned proper recovery activities as we’ll be playing every day and even twice on one day.
What are your expectations for UJ heading into the tournament?
I expect my team to win, not to underestimate any team, play to the best of their abilities, stick to the goals and objectives we set for ourselves, and lastly to enjoy the tournament.
KGOTHATSO MANAMELA (UL)
How has UL prepared for 2021 Varsity Football?
We’re well prepared. It wasn’t easy, obviously, because of the pandemic and academic pressure, but we had to deal with the circumstances. It’s a new experience for the whole team, so everyone is excited and determined.
How does UL plan to deal with the challenge of playing the tournament in a bio-bubble?
We saw PSL bio-bubble games last season, so mentally we have an idea of how things are going to be in the tournament. We’ll take it as a challenge and observe all protocols.
What are your expectations for UL heading into the tournament?
We are thoroughly prepared, so I expect full commitment, good character and hunger to win games. We also expect tough games because everyone wants to win the trophy. We aim to be dominant, collectively and individually.
BONGEKA GAMEDE (UWC)
How have UWC prepared for 2021 Varsity Football?
We play in the Hollywoodbets Super League along with the majority of the varsity teams, so we played against good teams from various provinces, which prepared us very well. We are all excited because Varsity Football is back.
How does UWC plan to deal with the challenge of playing the tournament in a bio-bubble?
We have been in a bio-bubble before so we understand what it means to be in one. We just have to follow the Covid regulations by sanitising, wearing masks and refraining from socialising with other teams.
What are your expectations for UWC heading into the tournament?
I expect the team to do well and possibly win the tournament, which would be wonderful as we have lost the last five finals. But it’s important for everyone to enjoy the tournament and never underestimate any team.
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